The Apostles Fellowship International has called on the Joint Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill to include a constitutional provision defining marriage as a voluntary union between one man and one woman and prohibiting the legal recognition of same-sex marriage.
While making a submission at the Kilaka Village Community Hall in Kubulau, Bua, Apostles Fellowship International President Penioni Ravunawa says their position is guided by Christian faith, responsible leadership and respect for the dignity of every person.
He says the marriage exception in Section 26 of the 2013 Constitution and proposed clause 29 do not, in themselves, provide a clear definition, and therefore, they are calling for clearer wording to be considered alongside religious freedom under proposed clause 25.
Ravunawa says churches and ministers should remain free to teach and solemnise marriages according to their faith.
He says every person must nevertheless be protected from violence, intimidation and degrading treatment.
The Assistant Health Minister also proposed strengthening religious registration and financial accountability by establishing an independent statutory body to coordinate the registration and oversight of religious organisations.
He says there are more than 330 registered religious bodies in Fiji, despite the country having a population of approximately 900,000.
He believes stronger registration requirements and financial accountability are needed for new churches, faiths and ministries seeking to establish themselves in Fiji.
Ravunawa says the body's responsibilities should include verifying governance arrangements, maintaining public registers, requiring proportionate financial reporting and enforcing safeguards for children and vulnerable people.
The Church President says the vetting process must be fair across all faiths, with written reasons and an independent appeals process, and its purpose should be to prevent exploitation and misconduct.
He adds that religious and traditional status must never be used to conceal private commercial benefits to avoid paying taxes legally owed.
He says they recommend transparent accounting, disclosure of related businesses and proper verification by the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.
The Assistant Minister also supported the call by the President of the Methodist Church in Fiji for prayer, worship and a day of rest.
To strengthen accountability and constitutional rights, Ravunawa says they are calling for a closer examination of the Attorney-General's functions and the concentration of executive influence.
He says proposed clauses 116, 136, 140 and 179 should be assessed together to safeguard independent appointments, legal advice and oversight.
On the excessive use of illicit drugs affecting the country, Ravunawa says faith-based support can offer hope and a sense of belonging alongside appropriate clinical treatment and voluntary spiritual care.
He adds that they seek a Fiji that honours God, strengthens families, respects dignity and holds leaders accountable.
The Assistant Minister says they also support proposed clause 11(a), which recognises Christianity and family values among Fiji's founding values.
He says the Gospel has transformed lives and inspired education, healthcare, reconciliation and service.
He further says these values must also shape leadership through honesty, compassion and faithful stewardship.
He adds that they support retaining this recognition, together with religious liberty and equal citizenship.
